Taking it easier is a good step. But as Lightning stated, some fluid retention can occur which isn't the end of the world.
Remember, pumping goes way back and the Silisleeve /
Silicap solution is relatively new, although condom pumping has been around for a good while. The sleeves and
cap make it much more economical though.
I actually pump quite often with just the
sleeve, without the
cap. Somewhat of a personal preference I think, I've pumped with the
Silicap on and it can help, but sometimes (read: too often) I just feel lazy.
It's always wise to build up the pressure, not straight away pump to a max, be it without sleeves /
cap, a gradual increase in force often works best.